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Deep discounts on car installation gear

With most stereo and speaker purchases, we offer installation guides, dash kits, wiring harnesses, and speaker accessories at deep discounts. Also, you can just buy our installation guides for $10. (If you buy a new stereo or speakers from us within 60 days, we'll apply the $10 to your order.)

Free Shipping on all orders $35 and up

We offer standard delivery in 3 business days or less.

Most orders received by 5PM ET (M-F) ship the same day.

Please see our shipping map below for estimated times.

Estimated standard delivery time to the U.S. and Puerto Rico

Delivery time estimates do not apply to large or heavy items that require special
shipping (including most TVs), items shipped directly from the manufacturer, or
out-of-stock items. Some items that ship from the manufacturer can only be delivered
to addresses within the 48 contiguous states.

Delivery time for standard shipping to any of the 50 U.S. states or Puerto Rico is 1-3 business days. Saturday, Sunday and national holidays are not considered business days for delivery purposes.

Newer model available

Pioneer loaded their DEH-X8500BS CD receiver with plenty of great features, like built-in Bluetooth® and Pandora® Internet radio control. It also gives you the option of adding a SiriusXM tuner — so you'll always be in touch with your favorite team, breaking news, or a wide variety of commercial-free music channels. And SiriusXM's coast-to-coast reception means you never have to worry about finding the perfect station, no matter where you drive in the U.S.

Full of features, ready for SiriusXM

Pioneer loaded their DEH-X8500BS CD receiver with plenty of great features, like built-in Bluetooth® and Pandora® Internet radio control. It also gives you the option of adding a SiriusXM tuner — so you'll always be in touch with your favorite team, breaking news, or a wide variety of commercial-free music channels. And SiriusXM's coast-to-coast reception means you never have to worry about finding the perfect station, no matter where you drive in the U.S.

The DEH-X8500BS's display and controls colors can be adjusted separately.

Built-in Bluetooth

Your days of fumbling in your pocket or purse for your cell phone are over. The DEH-X8500BS's built-in Bluetooth pairs up with your mobile phone in a heartbeat, so you can take and make calls hands-free, with your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. You can also stream music wirelessly from Bluetooth-equipped devices to the receiver, with no messy cables getting in the way.

Play your music and make it sound great

You'll find plenty of ways to enjoy your music with this versatile Pioneer. All you iPhone® or iPod® users can use the Pioneer's controls to access your music, plus stream your favorite Pandora® Internet radio stations. Download a free app, and you can also enjoy music stored on an Android™ phone when it's plugged into the USB input. You can use the 5-band equalizer to adjust your tone, while the Advanced Sound Retriever adds some life to your compressed music.

Step up the show with MIXTRAX

Get the party started by simply pressing the "MIX" button on the receiver's face. MIXTRAX works with the playlists and music files of your connected iPhone®, iPod®, or Android™, adding DJ-inspired transitions between songs, while pulsing the variable color display of the receiver in time to the music. You'll also like what you see when you're not using MIXTRAX — you can easily choose from preset or custom colors for the display and controls, for a perfect match with your dash illumination. And Pioneer's sharp Organic Electro-Luminescent display offers a variety of animated backgrounds too.

Want to keep your steering wheel controls?

In most vehicles, you can use an adapter (not included) to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Pioneer stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the Pioneer, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

Note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.

Note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check Details for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver or its optional iPod adapter.

Great Quality!

This receiver was super easy to install, has great sound quality with built in amp and blue tooth pairs quicker than expected. I can even use Google now through the included mic. All around exceeded my expectations.

Pros:Quick and easy pairing.
Superior Sound Quality.

Cons:Usb not compatible with certain androids.
(Still not something to gripe over)

Great budget stereo

I wanted a way to listen to my iPhone in my car and had no way of doing so except through a less than desirable FM transmitter. So I Bought this head unit to upgrade the factory stock radio in my '06 ford freestyle. Couldn't be happier. Easy install, great sound, extensive customization, and looks good too. The wiring harness that was provided by Crutchfield made hooking up the wires a breeze. Just soldered the harness to the wires on the head unit and plugged it into the existing harness that the old radio plugged into.

Pros:Great price for what you get.

Cons:None that I can think of aside from the free mounting bracket was snapped in half when I revived it. Nothing a bit of super glue can't handle though and you'd never even know.

DEH-X8500BS

Great sounding stereo! The installation kit, and MasterSheet that Crutchfield includes, make the installation super easy. The phone and iPod connected without any difficulty. Audio quality is excellent. The FM tuner works as good (if not better) at receiving weak stations as the factory radio did.

Pros:

Cons:None

0 of 0 found this helpful

Everything I need

I went from a double DIN 7-inch touchscreen DVD receiver to this unit because the New England winter wreaked havoc on the touchscreen, sporadically rendering it useless. I was going to replace it with another DVD receiver, but after getting a tablet vehicle mount, I realized there is absolutely no need for in-dash video anymore.

Pros:Six 4v preamp outs, BT audio, seamless Android Pandora control

Cons:Mixtrax is worthless & the red Mixtrax button is annoying (all the other button colors are adjustable)

Good radio

As always Crutchfield was awesome when it came to including everything I needed hooking up the head unit to the car. One thing that was frustrating during installation was that it wasn't very clear in any of the instructions that four wires (blue for power amp or something like that) had to all be connected to each other. I don't remember running into that with previous radio installations but it's been several years since I did one.
When I called Crutchfield's help line I spoke to one rep who was very rude about the blue wire problem. I called back in again and got help from a different rep.
The radio as a whole is pretty good. The remote control is VERY basic and leaves some things to be desired vs other remotes I've had before. For me, I can barely see the head unit display during the day due to glare unless I use the White illumination... But that could be just me and my specific car. I had it set to red to match the rest of my car but during the day you just can't see anything on the display.
The settings are pretty easy to navigate and make changes to for the most part... Though you'll need the manual to determine what some of the settings actually do.
The navigation for the physical buttons on the head unit face are really unintuitive. I overlooked it when I was looking at buying the radio. There aren't any clear pause/play buttons. I know they're on there somewhere, but I forgot what they are and haven't gone back to the manual to check yet.

Pros:Bluetooth audio streaming is nice for Spotify.
Bluetooth phone calls are sometimes convenient.. But sometimes people can't hear me very well even with my AC off.
Lots of customizable features with Mixtrack or whatever it's called.. Also pretty good audio customization.

Cons:Can't see most color illuminations during the day.
Poor physical key design on the head unit
Poor remote control design

1 of 1 found this helpful

Excellent Choice

Installed this in my son's 2000 Mustang and he loves it. The most difficult part was connecting the speaker plug, the factory male and supplied female fitting must be finessed or you can bend the pins or ruin the connector (I did). I eventually took my time and got it connected and everything works perfectly. He loves the sound and the many colors. Programming was simple and quality is on par with other brands.

Very nice unit

This unit is a replacement that I bought after my after market Kenwood unit died. I'm very pleased with the features and usability of the unit. The ONLY downside to this unit seems to be it's rather weak FM reception. I drive about 20 miles one way to and from work every day, and my morning drive is usually locked into one local morning show. Every radio I've had for this route has never had a problem with this station - except this radio. For about a 2 mile stretch I get bleed over from other stations (that are nowhere near this one on the spectrum) and static. I've pulled the unit out and made sure that all of the antenna connections are secure, I've even used electrical tape to tape the male and female antenna connections in place to ensure that nothing is loose. It still does the same thing.

Pioneer DEH-X8500BS

This was installed in a 2008 dodge ram. With Crutchfield's guidance, installation was a breeze. After installation, use of the receiver was easy. It took some time to learn the use of the buttons along w/ features but I was able to do so w/o looking at the instruction book (which is always a bonus). The display is well lit and is not to bright at night. Sound quality seems to be on par w/ an older Alpine receiver that I had installed in another car ( I also have an Alpine amp along w/ new Polk Audio DXi 6x9 and 5 1/4 speakers and Polk Audio tweeters so sound quality may be skewed due to this). I will hopefully be hooking up 2- 10" subs in the near future w/ another amp. This will be the true test. Overall, I am very happy w/ this receiver. Highly recommended for someone looking for a clean, looking receiver w/ crisp sound and blue tooth capability

Pros:Appearance
Sound quality
good blue tooth
Special features

Cons:Wish that Mixtrax was better (but not really a problem)

0 of 0 found this helpful

Great unit

I put this in my 1991 Suburban and I am very happy with it. The Bluetooth works excellent. Everyone can hear me perfectly and I can hear them perfectly as well. I have an Iphone5 and it paired up with no issues. Works flawlessly every time I get in the car. The sound is great when I listen to Pandora through my phone. I also added a SiriusXM module and it also sounds great. I also wanted this unit because it has 4v outputs for my amps. The colors are cool too and you can choose different colors for each side of the unit. Also my old remote control from my old Pioneer HU works on this unit too so I can use either remote. I am using my old one because I have memorized all the functions and they work exactly the same so it's really a surprise bonus for me!

Pros:Clear Bluetooth. Long USB cable coming out of the back. Different colors for each side. 4v outputs for building your system. Older Pioneer remote control works on this unit. Good price.

Cons:None that I have found.

0 of 0 found this helpful

Nice receiver

Great unit, Crutchfield service is amazing as always. Installation was straight forward, even for a first time self-installer.
Bought this unit with the optional SiriusXM receiver (SXV200), I had a dock and play receiver beforehand, and this was mainly a replacement for that with the added bonus of bluetooth audio streaming/ipod/iphone control. The hands free sounds great for folks on the other end of the call, depending on your speakers it sounds decent on your end as well. Tested call quality with a couple of test calls to my voicemail, tinkering with a/c settings and road noise-- unit handled most scenarios fairly well.
Only issues I've encountered after a few days of usage and combing through the manual off and on, aren't big deal breakers-- but I feel like these basic options/settings are missing considering they're partially baked in to other functions/sources.

Pros:Everything is pretty much what you should expect from a modern car stereo-- connectivity options, variable color options to match your interior, detachable face, decent display.
I like USB on rear of devices-- I mounted a USB jack with a PAC cable in my center console to avoid a tangle of cables from the front of the stereo (part of the reason why I got away from a dock and play satellite radio) or on my dash/console, and I almost never use a 3.5mm aux input device.

Cons:- USB mode switched to automatically when you plug your phone in, if you are in a different source. Wish there was an option to disable this-- just mount the device and charge.
- Pandora opens automatically when you plug your iPhone in via USB. Would prefer USB over Pandora mode by default, but no change above all-- keep my current source selection, please.
- No dedicated voice control button in any source, defeats purpose of hands free control if I have to tinker or look down.

Cons:Mixtrack is kind of dumb, it has the DJ effect when the song ends, but it still has a couple seconds of silence before the next song starts, and when it does start it starts a couple seconds into the next song. You also can't use Siri with the built in mic. And you can't browse your music from the headunit while connected using bluetooth.

Product Research

Built-in Bluetooth

Bluetooth Technology: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS is equipped
with built-in Bluetooth (version 3.0), allowing you to make and receive phone
calls wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from
your smartphone to the head unit. In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology,
your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain
profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:

SPP (Secure Simple Pairing): With Secure Simple Pairing
(SSP), you can easily pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the DEH-X8500BS without
having to enter pin codes or go through complicated settings. When a registered
Bluetooth device is in close proximity to the receiver, the auto connection
function automatically pairs the two units. Up to 3 Bluetooth-compatible devices can be
registered to this head unit. Only one device can be used at a time. Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology,
some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or
may not support all features when used with the Pioneer DEH-X8500BS.

Hands-Free Communication: The DEH-X8500BS supports wireless
hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile
phone. The head unit will display the caller's information and an audible ring
tone will be heard through your vehicle's speaker during an incoming call. You
can manually answer an incoming call or have the unit automatically answer the
call. The DEH-X8500BS allows you to carry on a phone conversation from your
Bluetooth enabled mobile phone using the head unit's external microphone and
your car audio speakers. During a conversation you can adjust the volume, as
well as switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone)
and the Hands Free Mode. Using the DEH-X8500BS, you can dial a phone number in
one of the following ways:

Phone Book: The phone book in your Bluetooth enabled
cellular phone will be transferred automatically when the phone is paired to
this unit. After finding the number you want to call in the phone book from
the head unit, you can select the entry and make the call. If a lot of
numbers are registered in the phone book, you can search for a phone number
by the contact person's name alphabetically (A-Z).

Call Log: The most recent calls dialed, received,
and missed are stored in memory. You can browse them and call numbers from
these lists.

External Microphone: During your wireless phone call, you
can talk into the head unit's included external microphone, and listen to the
other party through the vehicle's speaker system. The external microphone
provides better performance in noisy environments than the integrated microphone
found on the front-panel of many aftermarket or factory radios. The microphone
features a 13' cord that plugs into the back of the radio, and comes with a visor-mount clip. The microphone measures 0.475" (diameter) x 1.445"
(depth).

Wireless Audio Streaming (with Meta Data Display): The
Pioneer DEH-X8500BS supports wireless audio playback (AD2P) and control (AVRCP)
of a Bluetooth enabled audio player or smartphone. The DEH-X8500BS will be able
to control your stored music's basic playback functions; such as Play/Pause,
Previous/Next Track, Fast-Forward/Reverse, and Repeat/Random. The head unit will
also display your stored music's song information; such as Artist name, Song
title, and Album label. The DEH-X8500BS also supports audio streaming of music
apps (metadata display and control will depend on music app). When an incoming
call or outgoing call is in progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone,
audio streaming will be paused so you can take your call. Once the call is
finished, your streaming music will resume.

Voice Recognition: The head unit's voice recognition feature can be
used to control basic phone and music functions of your Bluetooth-enabled iPod
or iPhone (which is also equipped with voice recognition). Press and hold the
head unit's front-panel 3-way rotary knob and speak into the included external
microphone.

USB/iPod/Aux Integration

Rear-Panel USB Input: The unit's rear-panel USB (type-A)
port and 59" USB extension cable allows you to connect a USB Mass Storage Class
(MSC) compliant device; such as select Android smartphones (Froyo/Gingerbread OS
only), portable digital audio players, or USB thumbdrives. The USB port enables
audio playback & control of AAC, MP3, WMA, and WAV audio files stored on
portable USB mass-storage class devices. Basic playback functions include;
Play/Pause, Fast Forward/Rewind, Previous/Next Track, Random (Folder), and
Repeat (File/Folder/All). Advance playback functions include; Music Browsing
which lets you browse your USB memory device's music library by Artist, Album,
Song, or Genre from the head unit in alphabetical order; and Link Play
which allows you to play songs related to the currently playing song. Link
Play lets the head unit create an album list of the currently playing
artist, a song list of the currently playing album, or an album list of the
currently playing genre. In addition, the unit is compatible with ID3/WMA Tags
and will display song/artist information. USB portable audio players that can be
charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port
(1A) and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

File
Format

File Type

File
Extension

Bit Rate

Sampling
Frequency

Tags

# of
Files/folders

FAT
12/16/32

AAC

.m4a

16-320 kbps

11.025-48 kHz

iTunes tag

1,500 folders
15,000 files

MP3

.mp3

8-320 kbps

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

ID3 tag (version
1.0/1.1/2.2/2.3/2.4)

WMA

.wma

48-320 kbps
(48-384 kbps VBR)

32, 44.1, 48 kHz

WMA tag

WAV

.wav

8 or 16-bit

16-48kHz or 22.05-44.1kHz

N/A

Note: You cannot connect a USB device via a USB hub or
Multi-Card Reader to this unit.

iPod Direct Connection w/ DAC Bypass: The Pioneer
DEH-X8500BS's rear-panel USB port and 59" USB extension cable can be used to connect your iPod/iPhone to the
head unit, via Pioneer's dock connector-to-USB cable (130CDIU51,
sold separately) or the dock connector-to-USB cable which comes with your
iPod/iPhone. If you have an iPod nano (7th gen), iPod touch (5th
gen), or iPhone 5; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple
device to connect to the head unit.
Using either cable, DEH-X8500BS supports audio playback, music navigation,
information display, and charging of your compatible iPod/iPhone. The USB
connection allows your iPod/iPhone's stored music to be loaded instantly to the
head unit and sound quality to be maximized through the head unit's 24-bit D/A
converter, allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 94dB. The Pioneer head
unit supports audio playback of music, podcasts, audiobooks, and music apps
stored on your iPod or iPhone. The head unit will display your iPod/iPhone's
stored music file information, including - Track number, Folder number, Elapsed
playing time, Song title, Artist name, and Album title. The head unit's USB
connection provides 1A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone
when your vehicle's ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position (if
your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize
it). You can choose to operate your iPod/iPhone
through the head unit's front-panel controls, from its clickwheel/touchscreen,
or via a streamed app from your iPhone.

Head Unit: From the head unit, you can browse your
iPod/iPhone's music library by Artist, Album, Song, Genre, Playlist,
Composer, Podcast, or Audiobook (your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or
touchscreen will be locked). Once you have selected a category, you can
search each category alphabetically. In addition, the head unit offers
Link Search, which allows you to play songs related to the currently
playing song. Link Search lets the head unit create an album list of
the currently playing artist, a song list of the currently playing album, or
an album list of the currently playing genre. You can also select Random& Repeat functions for a certain song or specific folder.

iPod: In iPod mode, you can navigate the stored music
on your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen, while still being
able to view song/artist information on the head unit's LCD.

App Mode: App mode lets you listen to your favorite
music apps, such as
iHeartRadio,
SiriusXM,
Rhapsody, &
Slacker from your iPhone (iOS 3.0+) through the Pioneer head unit
and your vehicle's speakers. Not all apps will be compatible with App Mode
and App Mode will provide only limited (basic), if any, control over the
app. Available controls may include; Play/Pause & Skip Previous/Next.
There is no music information displayed when this unit is set to 'App Mode'.
Instead, all music information will be displayed on your iPod/iPhone's LCD
screen. The head unit's LCD will only display the text - 'App Mode'.

iPod Compatibility Chart: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS is "Made
for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model
functions (as of 12/4/2012):

iPod Model

Generation

Tested Version

Media Type

Control Type

Display Type

Pandora app

Bluetooth

Charge

Audio

Video

Head Unit

iPod

App mode

Artist/Song Text

Track Info

Phone

Audio

iPhone

2G

3.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

3G

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3GS

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4S

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

touch

1st

2.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

2nd

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

3rd

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

4th

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

5th

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

nano

1st

1.3.1

Y

N

Y

N

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

2nd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

3rd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

4th

1.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

5th

1.0.2

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

6th

1.1 PC

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

7th

1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

classic

80GB

1.1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

120GB

2.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

160GB

2.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

video

5th

1.3

Y

N

Y

N

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

iPad

1

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

2

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

3

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

4

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

mini

6.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change
functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may
need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If
this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is
available.

MIXTRAX: Drawing from Pioneer's rich DJ heritage and
passion for music, MIXTRAX delivers a unique DJ infused listening experience to
listeners in the car. MIXTRAX is an innovative Pioneer technology that creates a
non-stop mix of your music library complete with a range of DJ-inspired effects.
MIXTRAX takes your typical music listening experience and creates a non-stop mix
of your music with 9 random DJ effects and transitions, by removing the breaks
and pauses normally introduced between tracks and replacing them with various
beats. MIXTRAX is compatible with USB-connected iPhone, iPod, USB MSC device,
and select Android devices. There is also a Short Playback option which limits
the amount of time each track plays; select from 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 minutes.

Note: The MIXTRAX function does not work in App mode or with the
Pandora App for iPod/iPhone/iPad.

Auxiliary Input: The DEH-X8500BS is equipped with a
front-panel 3.5mm stereo minijack auxiliary input for connecting external
components, such as a portable MP3 player.

Pandora App Control

Pandora Internet Radio: Pandora is the leading Internet
Radio music service in the United States, giving people music they love anytime,
anywhere, through personalized radio stations. The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS CD
receiver lets you playback and control the Pandora Internet Radio music service
that is being streamed to your Apple iPhone or Android smartphone. Your iPhone
or Androidsmartphone will need an active Data Plan account with connection to
the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. In addition, you will need an active Pandora
music service account.

Pandora App for iPhone: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS
provides complete access to your Pandora account using your iPhone, via the
head unit's front-panel USB port. To access Pandora you must have an Apple
iPhone (iOS3 or later) with the latest version of the
Pandora App
from Apple's iTunes App Store.

Pandora via Android: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS lets you
playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed from your Android
smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). To access
Pandora from the Pioneer head unit, your Bluetooth-enabled Android
smartphone must have the latest version of the Pandora App from theGoogle Play App Store. Your Android smartphone must support A2DP,
AVRCP, and SPP Bluetooth profiles.

Note: Access to the Pandora service will depend on the
availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your
iPhone or smartphone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in
Canada and only available in the United States.

Pandora Control: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS will provide
control over the Pandora music service streamed to your USB-connected iPhone or
Bluetooth-enabled or Android smartphone.

Station List: You can select Pandora stations from your
Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z).

QuickMix: QuickMix allows you to listen to songs played
on one or more Pandora stations in your Station List randomly. You will need
to edit your QuickMix station selections on the phone before connection.

Skip Songs: You can skip song tracks within a station.
You cannot skip back to a previous song. Pandora limits the number of skips
allowed.

Thumbs Up/Down: You can give songs a thumbs up or
thumbs down to help Pandora personalize stations to suit your preferences.

Bookmarking: The song or artist currently being played
can be bookmarked & stored in your Pandora account.

Information Display: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS will display
Artist, Album, & Song information provided by the Pandora app on your iPhone or
Android smartphone.

RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast
information such as artist, title, and album when listening to compatible AM/FM
stations.

BSM (Best Stations Memory): The BSM (Best Stations Memory) function
lets you automatically store the six strongest stations under presets 1-6
of the currently tuned band. The tuner has 3 FM banks and 1 AM bank. You can
store 6 presets for each bank giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 6 AM
presets.

Local Tuning: Local seek tuning
lets you tune in only those radio stations with sufficiently strong signals for
good reception. There are 4 levels of sensitivity for FM and two levels for AM.
The higher settings allow reception of only the strongest stations, while lower
settings let you receive progressively weaker stations.

SiriusXM Ready: The DEH-X8500BS is SiriusXM Ready so you can listen to commercial-free music,
all your favorite sports, exclusive talk and entertainment, comedy, news,
traffic, weather, and more. Simply connect the SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner
(220SXV200,
sold separately) to the dedicated SiriusXM port on the rear of the CD receiver and
enjoy satellite radio without additional translators or cables. With the
SiriusXM Connect tuner you'll have access to more than 150 channels of
exclusive programming directly from SiriusXM, via the "SiriusXM
All Access" package (subscription required). VisitSiriusXM.com
for a complete list of subscription options and channel guide. Additional
features of the SXV200 SiriusXM Connect tuner include:

The List Menu displays a list of all available channels.

Displayed Information such as Channel Name, Artist Name, & Song Title
can be viewed on the head unit's LCD.

You can store up to 18 SiriusXM Satellite Radio Station Presets.

Tune Start allows you to choose whether to start a song from the
beginning or from its live point when tuning to a preset music channel.

You can scan through channels within categories or songs from your
preset channels. Tune Scan allows you to play back eight seconds of
each song in a preset music channel. Category Scan lets you play back
five seconds of a live broadcast in the currently selected category.

The iTunes Tagging feature lets you Tag songs you hear on
SiriusXM and stores the info on your iPod/iPhone (connected to your head
unit via USB). The next time you connect your iPod/iPhone to iTunes, you
will be able to preview your selections and then purchase and download them
directly from iTunes.

The SiriusXM Parental Control feature allows you to control
access to channels that you consider inappropriate for younger listeners.
When enabled, The Parental Control feature requires you to enter a 4-digit
passcode to tune to the locked channels.

Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio
subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). However, you can
easily add this SiriusXM tuner to an existing Sirius or XM account for a
Multi-Radio Discount Plan.

Disc Playback

MP3/WMA Playback: This unit can play MP3 and WMA
files recorded on CD-R and CD-RW discs in ISO9660 Level 1/Level 2,
Joliet, and Romeo formats. MP3 files with a bit rate from 8-320 kbps, WMA files
with a constant bit rate from 48-320 kbps, and WMA files with a variable bit
rate from 48-384 kbps are supported. The unit is compatible with ID3 Tags and
will display artist, folder, file, and album name. Up to 8
directories, 99 folders and 999 files per disc are recognized by this unit.

AAC Decoding: This unit will playback AAC files with a bit
rate of 16-320 kbps (encoded by iTunes) recorded onto CD-R and CD-RW discs. The
AAC file (.m4a) must originate from iTunes. The AAC file must also not contain
DRM protection. Not compatible with Apple Lossless.

Audio Section

MOSFET Amplifier: The DEH-X8500BS is equipped with a MOSFET
amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET amplification
circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased power with less
distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More power means louder
and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not pushing the limits of the
amplification circuit. The power specifications for the DEH-X8500BS are compliant
with the CEA2006 Mobile Amplifier Power Testing and Measurement standards from
the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). These standards were developed as a
way to equitably compare power specs from model to model and between
manufacturers.

Advanced Sound Retriever: The Advanced Sound Retriever
automatically enhances compressed audio and restores the original richness of
the recording. Hear the detail, warmth, and clarity, the way the artist intended
it, from all of your highly compressed MP3 and WMA files stored on your USB
device, iPod/iPhone, and portable media players. By restoring data (especially
higher frequencies) that tends to get lost in the digital compression process,
Pioneer's Advanced Sound Retriever technology enhances audio reproduction nearly
all the way up to 20 kHz frequencies

Equalizer: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS features a Preset & Custom
EQ. The built-in equalizer offers 7 preset sound modes (Powerful, Dynamic, Vocal, Natural,
Custom 1, Custom 2, and Flat) suitable for the music genre of your choice. The
two Custom modes allow you to manually adjust the head unit's 5-band
EQ (100Hz, 315Hz, 1,25kHz, 3.15kHz, 8kHz) from +/-6dB. Custom 1 can be set
separately for each source (except for USB/iPod/Pandora); while Custom 2 and the
other 5 presets are shared settings used for all sources.

Bass Boost The DEH-X8500BS features a bass boost function
which can be used to enhance low-frequency bass sound. The bass boost function
can be set between 0-6.

Loudness: The Loudness feature compensates for deficiencies
in the low and high sound ranges at low volume. You can set the Loudness feature
to Low, Mid, High, or Off.

Source Level Adjustment (SLA): This function lets you adjust
the volume level of each source to prevent radical changes in volume when
switching between sources. Settings are based on the volume level of the FM
tuner, which remains unchanged. Each source can be independently adjusted from
-4dB to +4dB.

4V/6CH Preamp Outputs: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS features three
pair of 4.0-volt preamp outputs (Front/Rear/Subwoofer). The unit's front and
rear preamp output can be faded (front/rear), while the subwoofer preamp output
is non-fading.

Crossovers: The DEH-X8500BS employs high pass and low pass
crossovers to tailor the head unit to your connected speakers.

HPF: The head unit's 12dB/octave high pass filter only
allows frequencies higher than those in the selected range (50, 63, 80, 100,
125Hz) to your front and rear speakers through the unit's speaker-level or
line-level outputs.

LPF: The subwoofer preamp output features an18dB/octave
low pass filter so only frequencies lower than those in the selected range
(50, 63, 80, 100, 125Hz) are output to your connected subwoofer.

Switchable Rear Channel/Subwoofer Speaker Output: The rear
speaker outputs can be set to provide full range output with full fading
capability, or they can be set to provide non-fading subwoofer (low-pass)
output. When the rear speaker outputs are set to subwoofer mode, the rear preamp
outputs also switch from full range to subwoofer outputs. When set for subwoofer
operation, you can connect the rear speaker leads directly to two small 4-ohm
passive subwoofers or a dual voice coil sub with 4-ohm voice coils. If you
prefer to use a single 2-ohm subwoofer, you can connect the woofer to one set of
speaker leads, leaving the other set of rear leads disconnected. The maximum
output provided when a 2-ohm load is connected to one set of leads is 70 watts.

Display Features

Detachable Face Security: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS in-dash CD
receiver features Detachable Face Security. If the front-panel is not detached
from the head unit within five seconds of turning off the ignition, a warning
tone will sound. The warning tone can be turned off in the menu, if desired. No face case is included with this
unit. An optional soft face case
(142DFC1X, sold separately) can be purchased for this unit.

Large Full-Dot LCD: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS features a
3-line, full-dot LCD which makes it easier to see what is playing in most
lighting conditions. You can easily view file/folder lists from your MP3, WMA,
AAC, and CD Text-encoded discs, Radio presets, or data from your connected
iPod/iPhone. The contrast of the display can be set between 0 and 15.

Color Customization: Color Customization lets the user match
their receiver illumination to their vehicle's interior lighting. Over 210,000
colors are available to match the illumination of almost any car. The button
illumination and display illumination colors can be customized separately for an
endless number of color combinations. You can select from 27 preset colors
(White to Rose), customize an illumination color (by adjusting Red, Blue, and
Green brightness levels), or scan through various color settings
(All/Warm/Ambient/Calm/Custom).

MIXTRAX Illumination: MIXTRAX features a club-style illumination that
enhances the mood with a dynamic dance club-like lighting effect. As MIXTRAX
begins, lights start pulsing to the beat of the music, adding an extra level of
entertainment. You can choose among twelve patterns of lighting variations from
sound pressure level or low-pass synchronization modes. The lighting effects
work like a spectrum analyzer, reaching peak colors based on the intensity of
the music. You can also choose which area's of the head unit's face illuminates;
select Display, Keys, Both or Off.

Multi-Language Display: For your convenience, this unit is
equipped with a multiple language display. You can select the language which is
best suited to your first language - English, French, or Spanish.

Ever Scroll: When the Ever Scroll feature is set to On,
recorded text information scrolls continuously on the display. It will
auto-scroll up to 64 characters. Set this feature to Off if you prefer the
information to scroll only once.

Entertainment Displays: You can enjoy entertainment displays
while listening to each sound source. You can choose from the following; Background Visual, Genre, Background Picture (1/2/3/4), Simple Display, Movie
Screen, or Calendar.

Calendar/Clock Display: The Pioneer DEH-X8500BS provides
time, date, month, and year display. You can choose to have the head unit
display the calendar and clock even when the unit is powered off (your vehicle
must be running or in the accessory position.

Automatic Dimmer: To prevent the display from being too
bright at night, the display is automatically dimmed when the car's headlights
are turned on. You can turn the auto dimmer feature on or off. The automatic
dimmer function only works when the orange/white illumination wire in the wiring
harness is connected to the vehicle's headlight circuit.

Display Illumination/Clock Display: When the Clock Display
has been turned on, pressing and holding the "SRC" button turns off audio
output, but the clock display and button illumination remains on (you can press
the "Clock" button to turn off). When the Clock Display has been turned off,
pressing and holding the "SRC" button turns the unit off completely. Even if you
have turned the radio completely off you can view the clock display by pressing
the "Clock" button. The clock will then remain On until you turn it back
Off. When the unit is On, both clock and source information can be displayed at
the same time; or you can set the unit to display only source info or only
clock/calendar.

Engine Time Alert: This setting allows you to measure the
length of time that elapses from when the head unit is turned on and display the
amount of elapsed time per set period (15 min., 30 min., or Off). There will
also be an audible alarm. This function is handy if you are listening to the
radio with the vehicle' ignition is in the accessory position, and the engine
off.

Demo Mode: This unit features a Demo mode which can be
turned On/Off within the menu.

Remote Control

Wireless Remote Control: The DEH-X8500BS comes with an IR
wireless remote control. The remote allows you to control the volume, switch
between sources, pause the CD, change the display, and adjust the audio. You can
also mute the volume (function that cannot be performed from the front panel).
In addition, you can answer and end a phone call from your Bluetooth-enabled
smartphone.

Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features
an OEM steering wheel remote control input on the rear of the unit that lets you
keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with
an optional
steering wheel audio control adapter (sold separately). Please consult
Crutchfield's
Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.

Our Product Research Team

At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team. They verify what’s in the box, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

Accessories

Q & A

Customer Q&A

4 questions already asked

Unfortunately android phones are not compatible to run any of the apps pioneer offers while connected through USB. However, connecting the phone via bluetooth will let you control Pandora, steam music wirelessly, and make phone calls.[ JUSTIN Mar 25, 2014 ]

Yes android connects through blue tooth to use the Pandora app. Skip and thumb function can be controlled through the headunit[ ALBERT Mar 24, 2014 ]

I guess I never tried it with it connected, me and my wife's phones are synced with it and can control Pandora that way through the head unit.[ SHANE Mar 24, 2014 ]

If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.[ Jeff Feb 27, 2014 ] Staff

I'm not sure if you can turn them all the way off but I do know there is a dimmer setting in one of the menus[ MIKE Feb 09, 2014 ]

yep, if you push and hold the "MIX" button, the display will completely turn off.. if you change tracks or the volume, it will temporarily light up then turn back off..[ MARCUS Feb 09, 2014 ]

Turn off? No I don't think that is possible. Actually it doesn't dim with the dimmer switch either. It has settings for colors for each half of the unit so I would suggest choosing a dim color like purple or something like that.[ DANIEL P Feb 08, 2014 ]

The lights stay on, depending on the make and model of the vehicle the illumination line/switch can be hooked up. However not all vehicles and decks work with the illumination feature. Your best bet for this issue is to get a deck that has a fold down face so he can start the music and then fold the face down to remove all lights from your veiw. Just an installers two cents...[ DONALD Feb 08, 2014 ]

Yes you can you just have to hold the MIX button untill they turn off and same to turn them back on[ JORDAN Feb 07, 2014 ]

Supposedly you can but I never did figure it out, the book must be in your lap and the printing is very small.[ THOMAS Feb 07, 2014 ]

You can't turn off the lights completely it does have a dimmer and you can select a display that doesn't move and turn off the flashing so its not distracting.[ BRANDON Feb 07, 2014 ]

Yes, if you press and hold the MIX button, the display will turn off or on, depending on the state it is in.You can also change the color of the display, I use dark red for long night time drives as this is least distracting.Hope this helps!I love my Pioneer DEH-X8500BS! Get your husband a sub-woffer if he doesn't have one - he will LOVE that. I got a Kicker self amplifed one for under the back seat of my F-150[ MARK E Feb 07, 2014 ]

You cannot turn the lights off at night. You can dim them and choose a more soothing color, but the only way to kill the lights is to take off the face.[ MARK D Feb 07, 2014 ]

You don't turn the lights off but you can change it to a non changing solid color with a non moving display. I just set mine to match my stock dash.[ BRIAN Feb 07, 2014 ]

You can connect with a mobile device through Bluetooth, and then stream Pandora on that mobile device through your head unit(all wirelessly), but without internet capabilities(which would require a data plan) you cannot stream Pandora directly to the head unit.[ DEVIN Jan 20, 2014 ]

Yes it will with the help of your phone. As long as your phone has the app you can control Pandora threw the head unit and skip songs and switch stations just like a CD. Is this what your question was?
[ SHANE Jan 20, 2014 ]

Yes it will. You will use a ton of data use on your device however.[ ANTHONY K Jan 20, 2014 ]